Talisman of the Pole
Star, ink and colours on
paper

The lower section of this painting is occupied
by Chinese writing and Daoist magic script, written in red for good
luck. The two painted figures, identified as the Pole Star and
Jidu, or Ketu, show the close links between popular Daoist and
Buddhist iconography at Dunhuang at this time. Various Daist
rituals are centered around the Pole Star, which was also important
in Buddhist ritual and astrological writing. As in the West,
astrology was practised in China and special
sutras
were written with the intention of exerting favourable influence on
the stars.

The Pole Star is
shown in an almost identical way to the traditional Western
representation of Mercury in human form. As with Mercury, the Pole
Star is connected with information: depicted as a female scribe
holding a paper and a
brush.

Ketu is a figure
from Indian astrology who, together with Rahu, became popular as
symbols of different phases of the
moon.

The inscription on
the painting translates: 'Whoever wears in his girdle this
talisman, which is a
dharani [magic chant]
talisman, will obtain magic power and will have his sins remitted
during a thousand kalpas
[eras]. And of the Ten Quarters all the Buddhas shall appear before
his eyes. Abroad in the world he shall everywhere encounter good
fortune and profit. Throughout his whole life he shall enjoy other
men's respect and esteem. His religious merit shall be
unparalleled, and this protection and purification shall come to
him as swiftly as Lü Ling [a Daoist sage]
rides.'

Talismans
were very important for Buddhists and Daoists alike, and their use
was encouraged by the monks.